Image encoding system

Abstract

A method of encoding depth data within a video image wherein the depth data is included within an active picture area of the video image.

1 . A method of encoding depth data within a video image wherein said depth data is included within an active picture area of said video image.  
     
     
         2 . A method as claimed in  claim 1  wherein said depth data is stored as sub pictures in said active picture area.  
     
     
         3 . A method as claimed in  claim 1  wherein said depth data is included within the last two lines of said active picture area.  
     
     
         4 . A method as claimed in  claim 1  wherein said depth data is stored at the end of said image.  
     
     
         5 . A method as claimed in  claim 1  wherein said depth data is included in a video over scan region of a video display.  
     
     
         6 . A method as claimed in  claim 1  wherein said depth data is stored at the start of said image, or at one or both sides of said image.  
     
     
         7 . A method as claimed in  claim 1  wherein said depth data is stored in a combination of the start of said image, end of said image, and/or at one or both sides of said image.  
     
     
         8 . A method as claimed in  claim 1  wherein said depth data is distributed over a plurality of frames of said video image.  
     
     
         9 . A method as claimed in  claim 2  wherein said depth data is distributed over a plurality of frames of said video image.  
     
     
         10 . A method of encoding depth data within a video image wherein said depth data is embedded in portions of said video image which remain substantially uncompressed.  
     
     
         11 . A method as claimed in  claim 10  wherein said depth data is stored in MPEG user data areas.  
     
     
         12 . A method as claimed in  claim 10  wherein said depth data is stored as a watermark.  
     
     
         13 . A method of encoding depth data within a video image wherein said depth data is embedded in portions of said video image which are only subject to substantially loss less compression.  
     
     
         14 . An image encoded with depth data wherein said depth data is encoded within an active picture area of said image.  
     
     
         15 . An image as claimed in  claim 14  wherein said depth data is encoded as a sub picture within said active picture area.  
     
     
         16 . An image as claimed in  claim 14  wherein said depth data is encoded within the last 2 lines of said active picture area.